The Senegal ace, who has scored 31 goals in 56 Premier League appearances for both West Ham United and the Magpies, has been constantly linked with a St James' Park exit over the past six months but Pardew has eased the fears of the clubs supporters by saying he is going nowhere.

However, the Toon boss admits it has been a difficult process in trying to have the former Hofenheim man sign a new deal because of a release clause in his current contract.

"The situation has never changed, Demba loves it here and understands it's a football city," he said after Ba netted a match-winning double in the 3-0 home win over Wigan Athletic on Monday night.

"We've tried to do a deal and take the clause out, we've not managed it yet so it's always there hanging over us and that makes it difficult for me, for Demba and the club."

About the author

Andrew Slevison is an avid sports fan, particularly of the world game. The Melbourne, Australia native, who has spent time living in London and travelling South America, takes a keen interest in the English Premier League and Major League Soccer and rates his best live footballing moment as the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil.